Tusau kesu — cutting the hobbles Verified eventFew spots left
Childhood
Тұсау кесу
Tusau kesu — cutting the hobbles
Meaning
Tusau kesu celebrates a child's first independent steps, usually around their first birthday. Cutting the cord that loosely ties the child's legs symbolises freeing them to walk confidently through life.
What happens
- 1
The child's legs are loosely tied with a cord, traditionally of colourful or black-and-white wool.
- 2
A respected person chosen by the family — an elder, a lively person with many children, or an honoured guest — cuts the cord while blessing the child.
- 3
The child walks forward toward a few objects, such as a book, a dombra, a whip or money.
- 4
The object the child reaches is playfully said to predict their future.
- 5
The family and guests share a festive meal.
Your role as a guest
Witness the ritual and join the celebration meal. Being invited to cut the cord is a high honour and entirely the family's decision; it is never offered as part of a listing.
Please note
This celebration centres on a small child. Take photos only with the parents' permission, and follow the family's lead on how close to stand during the ritual.
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